An overhead storage device or system may include a mechanism for hoisting the object to be stored (e.g., a bicycle) at an elevated height (e.g., above grade or floor level). In general, the present teachings may include a cable pulley engaged with a constant torque spring unit structurally configured to apply an approximately constant torque to the cable spool that promotes rotation of a spool thereof for winding of a lift cable about the spool to lift a load. Also disclosed are techniques for improving such a constant toque lifting unit such as an inertial brake structurally configured to slow down or stop an undesired, accelerated winding of a lift cable, a self-coiling device structurally configured to advantageously wind the lift cable a predetermined amount (e.g., for removal of same as a hinderance), and an attachment mechanism structurally configured to securely couple to a load.